Coronavirus Update: Death Toll Rises To 908, 40,171 Infected Cases; WHO To Accelerate Research And Innovation

Coronavirus death toll has crossed 900 in China. National Health Commission of China has confirmed 40,171 infected cases as of Monday. At least 25 countries have confirmed cases of coronavirus. Several nations have evacuated their citizens from Hubei province. Wuhan in Hubei is being considered as the epicentre of the novel coronavirus. So far, two deaths have been confirmed outside China due to coronavirus, one in Hong Kong and one in the Philippines. India has till now reported three positive cases in Kerala.

The World Health Organisation is convening a global research and innovation forum to mobilise international action in response to the new coronavirus. "Understanding the disease, its reservoirs, transmission and clinical severity and then developing effective counter-measures is critical for the control of the outbreak, to reduce deaths and minimise the economic impact," said Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, WHO Chief Scientist.

Also read: Can Sea-Food Spread Coronavirus? This And Other Questions Answered

With more cases being discovered across the world, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged countries to prepare for the possible arrival of the infection but stressed that people should remain calm.

Follow prevention steps to control the spread of coronavirus
Photo Credit: iStock

How to prevent coronavirus?

Currently, there is no vaccine for coronavirus. It is extremely important to control the spread of this infection with the right prevention steps. "People must have access to accurate information to protect themselves and others," said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Some of the effective measures explained by WHO on their official website include:

1. When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue - throw tissue away immediately and wash hands with soap and water. 

2. Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. It is the most important step for prevention of coronavirus.

3. Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough.

4. When visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of novel coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals.

5. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health care provider.

6. The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices.

Also read: Flu Shots Can Prevent Coronavirus - This And Other Myths Busted

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.